Wife of Nazir Masih Dies of a Heart Attack

Naseem and Nazir
Naseem and Nazir
Photo: Morning Star News
 

In May, shocking images of mob violence were revealed after 74-year-old Nazir Masih was falsely accused of burning pages from the Quran. The elderly Christian man was fatally wounded during the resulting mob violence, which also led to the destruction of his shoemaking business, along with several attacks against other Christians. Further details on the violent rampage are available here.

Following this tragic incident, Nazir's wife Naseem was left devastated, struggling to overcome the trauma of seeing her husband brutally beaten by his attackers. Her son Sultan says, "The tears in her eyes never dried." When bail was granted to the perpetrators responsible for the attack, the Christian widow's agony was further intensified.

On Friday, June 21st, Naseem began experiencing chest pains. An ambulance was called for the Christian woman, and the paramedics stated that her symptoms were likely due to stress. Since it was time for Friday's Islamic prayers, they told the family that no senior doctor would be available to look at her, so they gave her medication and left. When Naseem's condition did not stabilize, her family took her to the hospital where she died of cardiac arrest. The Christian woman has been buried next to her husband.

For the family members who are now mourning the loss of both Nazir and Naseem, tensions remain high. Many are fearful whenever they go into public spaces, concerned that they may be followed and potentially attacked. Speaking of the pain they are experiencing, Sultan states: "Our lives have been completely shattered. All family members – including children – are suffering from depression and stress. We have lost our business and are forced to live in our own house as refugees.... We've already lost hope for justice, and now my mother has left us."

Prayerfully remember this suffering family as they come to terms with the heartbreaking loss of Nazir and, more recently, now Naseem. As they determine what future steps to take, may God give these believers divine protection, greatly needed emotional healing, encouragement and strength, as well as provision for their financial and practical needs. Pray that justice will prevail in the case involving Nazir's passing, despite the tainted investigation, bringing this family a sense of peace and closure.

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

  • Blasphemy Conviction for Online Posts
    Furniture and possessions are strewn on a street. Some of them are burning.
    The riots in 2023.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In August 2023, the Christian colony of Jaranwala was filled with violence after allegations of blasphemy were made against two brothers. During the rampage, as many as 400 homes and 26 church buildings were damaged or destroyed. For more details, and to view video footage of the attacks, see this page.

  • Wife of Nazir Masih Dies of a Heart Attack
    Naseem and Nazir
    Naseem and Nazir
    Photo: Morning Star News
     

    In May, shocking images of mob violence were revealed after 74-year-old Nazir Masih was falsely accused of burning pages from the Quran. The elderly Christian man was fatally wounded during the resulting mob violence, which also led to the destruction of his shoemaking business, along with several attacks against other Christians. Further details on the violent rampage are available here.